Bringing NHL Hockey Back to Atlanta: The Gathering at South Forsyth Project
Professional hockey has been in the spotlight recently, with the Florida Panthers winning the championship again. In Forsyth County, plans for the NHL's return to metro Atlanta have been officially outlined. The proposed $3 billion mixed-use development, The Gathering at South Forsyth, includes an NHL-suitable arena but is contingent on securing a pro hockey franchise.
Vernon Krause, the developer behind The Gathering, expressed optimism about bringing NHL hockey back to the region. The recent approval by the Forsyth County Commission was a significant step towards realizing the project. Krause plans to meet with NHL officials and collaborate with local and state stakeholders to move the project forward.
The Forsyth County Commission chairman, Alfred John, described the decision as monumental for the county and hockey fans in the area. NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman has indicated that Atlanta's past failures with NHL teams will not hinder potential expansion efforts. While discussions have taken place with groups interested in bringing the NHL back to the metro, formal expansion plans are not yet in motion.
In a separate development, the Alpharetta Convention and Visitors Bureau is funding a study to explore the feasibility of converting the North Point Mall into a professional-grade arena. The Alpharetta Sports & Entertainment Group aims to attract pro hockey to the mall site. The Gathering at South Forsyth project envisions a Battery-style development with various amenities, including an arena for hockey games, concerts, and events.
The success of The Gathering project hinges on securing an NHL franchise for the Atlanta area. As negotiations continue and expansion plans remain uncertain, the fate of bringing NHL hockey back to the region remains to be seen. Stay tuned for updates on this exciting development in Forsyth County.